2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2023 Hyundai Palisade

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade stood as the flagship SUV in Hyundai's lineup, replacing the Santa Fe XL. It featured an elegant and striking exterior design, shedding any past criticisms of Hyundai's design language. The Palisade's prominent grille, crisp shoulder lines, and sculpted wheel arches contributed to its distinctive look. The continuous strip of glass surfaces around the tailgate gave the impression of a floating rear roof, while expressive LED headlights and taillights added to its signature appearance. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and elegant cabin with a horizontally arrayed 12.3-inch touchscreen and high-quality materials. The second row provided options for a bench or captain's chairs, and the third row was spacious enough for short rides.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade received a styling update that enhanced its commanding presence on the road. The new front fascia, with its squared-off grille and new headlights, gave the SUV a stronger look. LED accents and taillights were standard, and the Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured premium rear accent lighting and a unique grille. The 2023 model introduced a new colour, Robust Emerald, adding a subtle elegance to the lineup. Inside, the Ultimate Calligraphy trim boasted premium Nappa leather, a dual-pane sunroof, and a design inspired by luxury brands. The interior was equipped with heated and ventilated seats, and the second-row captain's chairs featured new wing-out headrests.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine choice was somewhat of a throwback in an era of turbocharged engines, but it offered a smooth and powerful driving experience. The Palisade's fuel consumption was estimated at 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.6 on the highway, and 11.1 combined. It featured a four-wheel independent suspension and could tow up to 2,267 kilograms with trailer brakes. The Palisade's curb weight ranged from 1,991 to 2,004 kilograms, contributing to its nimble handling.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade retained the same 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering identical power figures of 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine remained competitive in its class, offering more power than some rivals. The eight-speed automatic transmission could be controlled with paddle shifters, and all-wheel drive was standard in Canada. The Palisade's towing capacity remained at 2,268 kilograms, with a dedicated Tow Mode for optimized shifting. Fuel consumption was slightly higher at 12.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 11.2 combined. The HTRAC all-wheel drive system proved capable during off-road tests.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious interior with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. The third row provided easy access and cupholders, while the second-row captain's chairs were notably comfortable. The front row featured ample storage, including a centre console with two compartments. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,297 litres with the third row folded, and 2,447 litres with both rear rows down. The Palisade's shift-by-wire setup and intuitive controls added to its user-friendly design. A dual-panel sunroof was standard on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade continued to offer generous interior space, with legroom measurements of 1,052 millimetres in the front, 1,077 in the second row, and 798 in the third. Passenger volume totalled 4,397 litres. The third-row seats featured a 60/40 split and folded flat, with power folding available on higher trims. Cargo space remained consistent with the previous model. The Palisade's interior was designed for convenience, with HVAC vents in all rows and a centre console with a phone holder. Physical buttons and knobs were well-placed, and automatic dual-zone climate control was standard.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological prowess with a standard display audio system featuring a 1920 x 720 colour touchscreen. Most trims received a 630-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system with 12 speakers and Clari-Fi music restoration technology. The infotainment system included wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and satellite radio. USB ports were available in all rows, and a wireless charging pad was standard on Ultimate Calligraphy models. The Palisade also featured Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system, remote keyless entry, and a digital instrument cluster on higher trims.

In 2023, Hyundai enhanced the Palisade's technology with a new 12.3-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system as standard. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The premium Harman Kardon audio system was standard on higher trims, and up to two devices could connect via Bluetooth. The Palisade's digital instrument cluster was available on Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy models, and an in-car intercom was standard on these trims. Hyundai's Bluelink connected vehicle system was now standard on all trims, offering remote accessibility and management features.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured a comprehensive suite of passive and active safety features, including seven airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added Highway Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came with Hyundai's Smart Sense suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, driver attention warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot collision avoidance and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance were standard on all trims. Highway Driving Assist I was standard on Urban models, while Highway Driving Assist II was standard on Ultimate Calligraphy. The Palisade also featured a full-display digital rearview mirror and safe exit warning.